The One series of handsets from HTC are impressive to say the least. The One X and One S are a beast in terms of performance, they have a pretty decent camera, and a superb build quality and screen to go along with it. However, one of the issues with the One series of handsets is their capacitive buttons. The One X and S have three capactive buttons – Back, Home and the Multi-task switcher/Recent apps. However, quite a few apps in the Google Play market require a Menu key, which HTC gets around by adding a fugly virtual menu button at the bottom of the screen. Below is a screenshot to clarify what I am talking about -:

Even though this is a temporary problem, since majority of the Android apps will be updated to add support for the new layout, it is a very big issue in the near future. Thankfully, the developers over at XDA forums have managed to fix this problem. By just replacing two system files with modified ones, or flashing a zip file via CWM, One X owners would be able to get rid of that fugly on-screen menu button.

The mod will re-map the Recent app key a.k.a the multi-task switcher button (first from right) to the menu button, just like it was in Android 2.3 handsets. After installing the mod, the recent app key will work just like a menu button through-out the phone’s UI. The multi-tasking UI can also be accessed by long-pressing the ‘Menu’ key. Another version of the mod allows users to access the multi-tasking UI by long pressing the Home button, whilst still re-mapping the original Recent app key to the Menu button.

Keep in mind that the mod requires users to have root access on their handset. So if you have not yet rooted your One X, you just got a pretty strong reason to do so! Head over to this thread on XDA for more information and download links.

Author: Rajesh Pandey

Rajesh is a 19 year old nerd, currently pursuing B.Com Hons from Bhawanipore college in Kolkata, India. He loves everything tech, especially Android. You can follow him on twitter @ePandu or mail to him at rajesh@techie-buzz.com.